Entire Toronto neighbourhood will be taken over by epic food festival this weekend

Put on your stretchy pants and prepare to sample eats from some of the best restaurants in Toronto, because Taste of Little Italy is coming back this weekend.

Whether you're a certified foodie or just enjoy a good summer street festival, you're in luck this weekend, because Taste of Little Italy is set to house over 200 local businesses from the neighbourhood and beyond, serving up droolworthy eats and unique treasures to treat yourself to.

From long-standing local legends like Riviera Bakery and Bella Vista to trendy newer additions like Bear Steak Sandwiches, Susie's Rise and Dine and The Radici Project, there's truly something for everyone in the mix at this year's festival, but it's not only about the food.

This year, the festival will also feature a brand-new main stage, which will serve as the go-to spot for live entertainment for the entire weekend. You'll be able to catch everything from cooking demonstrations to live DJ sets, and even an appearance from American Idol Season 20 finalist Nicolina Bozzo.

On Sunday, June 15, the hot ticket at the main stage is the Pasta Eating Contest, where contestants race to down as many plates of spaghetti as possible to win a $250 gift card to Palma Pasta.

The main stage isn't the only exciting new addition to the festival this year. They're also introducing a food truck festival — a food festival within a food festival, if you will — to add even more eats into the mix.

The festival runs from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Friday, June 13, 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. on Saturday, June 14 and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday, June 15.

Road Closures

With the event taking over College Street all weekend long, there are some disruptive road closures you should be aware of, whether you're planning to attend the festival or just need to navigate getting around the city.

Starting at 3 p.m. on Friday, June 13, College will be closed between Bathurst and Shaw, with the closure lasting until Monday, June 16 at 3 a.m.

The 506 TTC route won't be running along College for the duration of the festival, either.